My Department has examined the schools industry link scheme proposal for the development and funding of eight business centres in local second level schools in the Finglas and Cabra areas.
My Department currently provides significant funding for projects in a number of the schools mentioned in this proposal. Three of the schools have been included in the new guidance enhancement initiative and two schools are in the stay in school retention initiative at second level.
The Finglas Cabra Area Partnership supports the schools industry link scheme with an operational budget to each school. The area partnerships have significant funding available for educational initiatives. The education sub-committee of the area partnership, which has representation from local education providers, should be approached, in the first instance, regarding the allocation or reallocation of existing resources.
I have asked my Department's inspectorate to contact the schools industry link scheme and to report back to me in relation to this proposal.